Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) is Russia’s busiest international airport, serving as the main hub for Aeroflot. Smoking inside the terminal is prohibited, but covered outdoor pavilions are available near each terminal entrance. For transit passengers, there’s one indoor option - but it’ll cost you.
Smoking Policy at Sheremetyevo
Smoking is strictly forbidden inside all terminal buildings at Sheremetyevo Airport. The ban extends to within 15 meters of any terminal entrance. Violating this rule can result in fines of 500-1,500 rubles (roughly $5-15 USD).
Outdoor Smoking Pavilions
In 2018, Sheremetyevo installed seven covered smoking pavilions near the terminal entrances. These enclosed structures are designed for 12-14 people and include ventilation systems to help clear the air. They’re within easy walking distance of each terminal and protect you from Moscow’s often harsh weather.
Look for the pavilions just outside the main entrances of Terminals B, C, D, E, and F. They’re clearly marked and easy to spot.
Smoking After Passport Control
Here’s the challenge for transit passengers: there is no public smoking area after you clear customs and border control. If you’re connecting through SVO and don’t want to exit and re-enter the secure zone, your only indoor option is a business lounge.
Moscow Lounge (Terminal D)
The Moscow Lounge on the 4th floor of Terminal D between gates 29-30 has an indoor smoking room. Access is available for:
SkyTeam Elite Plus members
Business and First Class passengers on participating airlines
Anyone willing to pay approximately 3,500 RUB (~$40 USD) for lounge access
If you have a long layover and need to smoke, the lounge fee might be worth it - plus you get food, drinks, WiFi, and comfortable seating.
Options for Transit Passengers
If you’re transiting through SVO and need to smoke, you have two choices:
Exit the secure area - Use the outdoor pavilions, then go back through passport control and security. Allow at least 90 minutes for this process.
Pay for lounge access - The Moscow Lounge in Terminal D has an indoor smoking area. Around $40 gets you in for 4 hours.
Tips for Smokers at SVO
Smoke in the outdoor pavilions before clearing passport control
For long layovers, the Moscow Lounge smoking room is worth considering
The outdoor pavilions have heating but bring a jacket in winter anyway
Don’t try to sneak a smoke inside - fines are enforced
Terminal D has the only indoor smoking option (in the lounge)